The United States government has issued an order to enhance its leadership in deep sea science, technology, and seabed mineral resources. Recognizing the strategic importance of seabed mineral resources, the order outlines the U.S.'s commitment to bolster its capabilities in this area while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
The order emphasizes the need for immediate action to develop seabed mineral resources responsibly. This includes quantifying U.S. seabed mineral reserves and strengthening American leadership in extraction and processing technologies. The aim is to create a secure supply chain that can support defense, infrastructure, and energy sectors.
The policy outlined in the order focuses on several key areas. These include developing domestic capabilities for exploration and processing, supporting investment in technology, fostering coordination among federal agencies, and establishing the U.S. as a leader in seabed mineral exploration.
"This includes rapidly developing domestic capabilities for the exploration, characterization, collection, and processing of seabed mineral resources through streamlined permitting without compromising environmental and transparency standards," the order states. Additionally, the order seeks to strengthen partnerships with allies to mitigate the influence of other nations over seabed mineral resources.
The order mandates the Secretary of Commerce to expedite the review and issuance of exploration licenses, in collaboration with relevant agencies, under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act. The Secretary of the Interior must establish a streamlined process for issuing exploration permits within the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.
Furthermore, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy are tasked with evaluating the feasibility of using the National Defense Stockpile for seabed-derived materials. They must also ensure the Strategic and Critical Materials Board of Directors considers seabed mineral developments in national security strategies.
International collaboration is also addressed, with efforts to engage with partners and allies in shared seabed mineral exploration initiatives. Reports from various departments will address opportunities and strategies related to seabed mineral resource development on national and international levels.
The order includes provisions for domestic and international exploration and stresses adherence to existing laws and the availability of appropriations. It is signed by the President at The White House on April 24, 2025.
